EDUCATION: Cape Henlopen High School; Undergraduate and Graduate degrees from Wilmington College

FAVORITE FOOD: Grotto Pizza

FAVORITE BOOK: Any book written by famous educator Ron Clark; “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett; “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini

HOBBIES: Traveling to Disney World and playing with the Delaware Diamonds Fast Pitch Softball Team

Lori Hudson, a fourth grade teacher at Phillip C. Showell Elementary School, was chosen to be the Indian River School District's 2013-14 Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made during an April 18 ceremony at Sussex Central High School. She was chosen from a pool of 15 candidates, one from each school in the district.

Q: Why did you want to become a teacher?

A: To experience lifelong success in students, watching them grow into adulthood. Also, in 1970, when I was less than two years old, my brother was born and labeled as "mentally handicapped." He had serious medical issues and passed away at the age of three.

Q: What's your favorite part about your job?

A: To see students learn to love school, be inspired and grow academically as well as socially.

Q: You were selected for this honor by your colleagues. How does that make you feel?

A: Absolutely humbled! The teachers of IRSD are the best of the best throughout the state. I feel that we should be honored every day for the hard work and dedication that is provided daily to the students of our communities.

Q: Did you think you were going to win?

A: Absolutely not. Each and every building teacher of the year demonstrates what we do on a daily basis. They are outstanding professionals and deserve recognition on a daily basis.